ABSTRACT
In many western societies, the notion of what constitutes a family is undergoing rapid and profound changes. The definitions focused on the nuclear family. This typically comprised a married couple – a mother and father – and their child. Earlier, in addition to the nuclear family, grandparents and other relatives were frequently part of the mix, making up the extended family. There is an almost bewildering array of family types. Because of the diversity, it may be appropriate to use a broader definition of the family, such as a group of people who are related by either blood or marriage/similar form of committed relationship. The main message to take from this diversity is that educators must not assume that the nuclear family with two parents is the only type of family. The chapter provides information on two strategies along with their Rationale and different levels of parent involvement. The strategies include: develop parent training programmes and engage families in education.
